Scientists urge Congress to reinstate dismissed National Science Board members
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 11
Scientists urge Congress to reinstate dismissed National Science Board members
9 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 11
More than 2,500 signatories said President Trump's removal of the National Science Foundation oversight board threatened US research funding and competitiveness with China.
The NSF, created in 1950, has recently distributed about $9 billion a year in grants, but by May 1 had committed only 10% of appropriated funds, about half the usual pace.
Former NSF leaders also warned of a leadership vacuum, while the board's 2026 report said China had surpassed the United States in research and development spending.
As China outspends the U.S. in R&D, can a politically-guided NSF reclaim America's innovative edge?
Without its oversight board, how will the NSF ensure funding goes to the best science, not just political priorities?
Is the 75-year-old model of politically-insulated science funding now obsolete in today's competitive world?
Abrupt Firing of National Science Board by Trump Sparks Crisis for $9 Billion NSF and U.S. Research
Overview
In April 2026, President Trump abruptly dismissed all members of the National Science Board (NSB) without explanation, breaking the board’s tradition of staggered six-year terms meant to ensure stability and independence. The White House did not respond to questions about the reasons or plans for replacements, raising widespread concern in the scientific community. This move followed public opposition from the former NSB chair to Trump’s proposal to cut the National Science Foundation’s budget by nearly 55%. Experts worry that a new board, fully appointed by the president, may be less likely to challenge such drastic funding cuts, threatening the independence of U.S. science policy.